TU6.6 The value of immersive endoscopy training for the surgical trainee

Aims Achieving endoscopic targets for CCT is problematic for General Surgery trainees. COVID-19 has negatively impacted all aspects of surgical training. Nationally, only 19% of colorectal trainees report completing 300 colonoscopies by CCT. We report on an immersive endoscopy training programme to achieve CCT targets. Methods To confirm reduced access to endoscopy, local General Surgery trainees (n=95) were invited to complete our survey assessing their endoscopic experience during their training to date. We compared the results to outcomes from a new 6-month immersive endoscopy programme. 2 out-of-programme (OOP) trainees; one had no endoscopy experience (completed core training; OOP 1); one had attempted 70 colonoscopies and 130 UGI endoscopies (ST4; OOP2). Results 42 trainees completed the survey (44% response rate), ranging from ST2-ST8 (74% ST2-ST6, 14% ST7/ST8, 12% OOP). UGI endoscopies attempted by all trainees: mean 119 (range 10–306). 55% had attended or secured a place on the JAG UGI endoscopy course. Colonoscopies attempted by all trainees: mean 67 (range 2–233). 45% having attended or secured a place on the JAG colonoscopy course. 29% of trainees anticipated not reaching target CCT endoscopy numbers. In comparison, in 6 months; OOP1 attempted 49 OGD, 199 colonoscopies with a place secured on colonoscopy course. OOP2 attempted 109 OGD and 216 colonoscopies with both courses completed. Conclusion Shortcomings in endoscopic training and courses, particularly for colonoscopy, have been confirmed. Implementation of immersion endoscopy training can achieve CCT target numbers and competency within a short time, irrespective of previous experience.